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Image Gently Works to Optimize Dental Radiation

The following post was contributed by guest blogger Marilyn J. Goske, MD, co-chair of the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging

As medical professionals, we know individualized care often yields better results. Especially for our youngest patients, radiation exposure may have effects. It is critical that we “child-size” imaging protocols.

The Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging recently welcomed the American Dental Association, American Dental Hygienists’ Association, American Dental Assistants Association, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology and other dental organizations to the Image Gently campaign.

Dental imaging is a component of maintaining good oral health. ImageGently.org houses materials to help dental professionals optimize dose in imaging performed on children and urges dental professionals to do the following in those instances:

• Select X-rays for an individual patient’s needs, not merely as a routine
• Use the fastest image receptor possible: E- or F-speed film or digital sensors
• Collimate beam to area of interest
• Always use thyroid collars
• Child-size the exposure time
• Use cone-beam CT only when necessary

We are thrilled that the dental societies, which represent nearly half a million professionals, have pledged their support and involvement in expanding this campaign to the dental community.

Geraldine B. McGinty, MD, MBA, FACR

Dr. McGinty is chair of the American College of Radiology Board of Chancellors. She is an expert in economics and a passionate advocate for quality imaging and its vital role in the delivery of health care.

Howard B. Fleishon, MD, MMM, FACR

Dr. Fleishon is vice chair of the American College of Radiology Board of Chancellors. He is an expert in government relations and has a special interest in radiology leadership and management.